Spider bites can be a serious matter. They can be fatal to people and animals or they can make them really ill. What would you do if you or someone you know is bitten? Here's everything you need to know to deal with spider bites.
Instructions
Forewarned is...Just Smart
1. Know your spiders. Although all spiders look scary, there are only about 12 types whose bite can affect humans or pets. The two most dangerous are black widows and brown recluses. You can call your local library or extension services to find out about spiders in your area. It's best to know what you may be dealing with ahead of time.
2. Examine the wound. After a bite, look for the bite mark and watch for redness and swelling and burning pain. There may also be stomach pain, vomiting, headaches, fever, dizziness and bulls-eye like bruising. The most dangerous reactions are trouble breathing and going into shock. If there is anything more than just a bite mark and a little redness and pain call the emergency room or get to the doctor. It's better to be safe.
3. Identify the culprit but don't risk anyone getting bit again. Knowing the color of the spider would be helpful in identifying it. After being bitten, first wash the wound with soap and water and/or clean with rubbing alcohol. Apply an ice pack. Use a bag of frozen peas or a zipper bag filled with ice if you don't have one.
4. Deal with the pain. If the pain is bad there are a few things you can try. Put drops (just a few) of Tea Tree Oil right on the bite. Be careful not to get it into your eyes. You can also put a little bit of ammonia on a cotton ball and press this on the bite for a few seconds. This should ease it quite a bit.
5. Observe the bite area. If the bite looks fine, continue to watch carefully for signs of infection or allergic reaction. They may not show up immediately. At the first sign of allergic reaction (trouble breathing or shock) go to the hospital immediately. You should seek medical attention if there's stomach pain, bad headaches, fever or vomiting.
6. Take precautions. First, know what poisonous spiders are in your area and where they're likely to be hanging around. Find out what you can about treating their particular bites. Call a reference librarian at any public library and she'll look it up for you. Next, if you know someone is allergic, keep a spider bite kit handy. It may save a life to have this when you need it.
Tags: allergic reaction, bite mark, headaches fever, know what, most dangerous